Boxelder Bugs

Boxelder bugs get their name from the fact that during the spring and summer months they live on, lay their eggs on, and feed on the sap of boxelder trees. They can also be found infesting ash, maple and fruit trees (apple, plum)

Free Estimate

Description

Adult boxelder bugs have a unique appearance in that they are black and have red or orangish outlined wings. Their bodies have an elongated oval shape and they are capable of flying. Young boxelder bugs look a bit different than the adults. Not only are they smaller in size, but they are almost completely red and are wingless.

Biology and Behavior

Boxelder bugs feed on soft plant tissues (leaves, flowers, and young branches) of the tree that they are living on. Using their specialized mouthparts they suck liquid out of the tree.

Except in the cases of very large infestations, boxelder bugs do not inflict much damage to the trees that they are feeding on.

Boxelder bugs live outside until late summer or early fall when the weather begins to cool and then they move inside of buildings to find a safe warm spot to spend the winter in.

Boxelder bugs are attracted to the warm sunny sides of buildings and congregate in large numbers on them where they often take advantage of cracks or gaps in exterior walls or around windows and doors and make their way inside.

During the winter boxelder bugs hide behind walls, in attics, and crawl spaces and in the spring they move back outside when the weather warms up to begin feeding and breeding once again.

Boxelder bugs are considered to be a nuisance pest and aren’t a danger but can, however, stain personal items, furniture, and curtains with their excrement.

Boxelder Bug Prevention Tips

Inspect the exterior of your home and seal any cracks or openings in the exterior walls or foundation.

Client Testimonials

Action is trusted by over 23,000 happy customers, see what our customers are saying!

“ Derek is always cooperative, enthusiastic, and professional. Excellent service whether I am home or not.”

James S.

“ Our granddaughter reacts very badly to mosquito bites, getting large lumps at the bite site and itching badly. This is the first summer she has been bite free and we don't have to worry when she’s at our house. We deeply appreciate Action Pest Control!”